Four 2020 draft prospects for the Vikings to watch in Week 8

Lynn Bowden Jr. – WR (Kentucky)

at #10 Georgia

When: Saturday, October 19 at 6:00 p.m. ET

Where: Sanford Stadium in Athens, GA

TV: ESPN

This may be a bit of a sleeper pick. But rather than looking solely at the top draft prospects for 2020, it is important to note some later-round options. Lynn Bowden Jr. is one of the most electrifying players in the country.

The wide receiver has even been getting some reps in the backfield and racking up rushing yards this year. Of his 67 touches on the season, Bowden has 30 receptions and 37 carries. His eight career touchdowns from scrimmage are not eye-popping, but Bowden is an elite play-maker. He is averaging 11.4 yards per reception and 6.2 yards per carry.

What really stands out about Bowden is his ability to return kicks. Over his career, Bowden is averaging 22.8 yards per kickoff return and his punt returns average an astounding 22.1 yards per attempt. He also has two punt return touchdowns in his career, both of which came in 2018.

Bowden is the perfect puzzle is today’s NFL. He can make a play from anywhere on the field. The Vikings have the potential for an explosive offense and we have seen that on display this season. Adding a guy like Bowden to play in the slot and contribute on special teams would be fun.

Prediction

Georgia is coming off a disappointing loss to South Carolina. They will do all they can to keep Kentucky from handing them back-to-back losses.

If the Wildcats want to win, they have to get the ball to Bowden early and often. I want to see him work as the focal point of the offense. Bowden ran the ball 24 times for 196 yards and two scores last weekend against Arkansas. Can he do that again?